Interview: Jane's Addiction interview

They were one of the first alternative bands to hit the big time, and with albums like Nothing's Shocking and Ritual de lo Habitual, the grunge band has maintained its longevity and love of music.

quick bio

Formed in Los Angeles in 1986, Jane's Addiction's original incarnation consisted of vocalist Perry Farrell, bassist Eric Avery, drummer Stephen Perkins, and guitarist Dave Navarro. Shortly thereafter, the quartet recorded a live album at Hollywood's legendary Roxy (where years before, Eddie Van Halen and Randy Rhoads were trading licks) under the Triple X label. In theory, that album blended folk, punk, jazz, and rock. In effect, it added Perry's profanity-laced rhetoric with hypnotic beats, and intoxicating grooves with off-tune guitar lines.

The record labels were quickly addicted to Jane's potion and Warner Brothers proved to be the winner of the derby. Within two years, Nothing's Shocking was released and received critical praise. Mass appeal ensued with 1990's raucous Ritual de lo Habitual and the classic "Been Caught Stealing" video. In many ways, Jane's Addiction was the first alternative band, but ironically the band never had the huge success of their later grunge brethren, partially because they let it all hang loose.

The album consisted of subconscious vibes and an eerie tone. It was irresistible for an underground audience, but hard to digest for the masses that went on to embrace the Pearl Jams and Nirvanas of the world.

Truly a work of magic, the album's sleeve was a direct blow to American censorship: the front cover was plain with nothing but the First Amendment emblazoned on it (the original featured a Farrell sculpture). While Farrell further flexed his appeal by successfully launching Lollapalooza, Jane flamed out thereafter. In 1992, the band dissolved and Farrell founded Porno for Pyros with drummer Perkins and bassist Martyn Le Noble.

Navarro and Avery formed Deconstruction. In typical Farrell fashion, he stated: "It boiled down to me not getting along with them, I'm not saying whose fault it was. Even though I knew whose fault it was." The man with the cast of suspicion was Navarro who went on to strum for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1994.

By 1997, Farrell and Perkins kissed and made up with Navarro, who subsequently lured illustrious Chili Peppers' bassist Flea for the reunion "I-Itz M'My Party" tour. Warner sought to capitalize on the reunion and released the Kettle Whistle compilation.

Fast forward to 2001 when the quartet got on stage at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California as Navarro's solo release Trust No One hit stands. Months later, the group announced that Jane's Addiction was reuniting and hitting the road on the Jubilee tour. We got in touch with drummer Stephen Perkins to find out what was up with the guys.

Yeah well, Perry [Farrell, lead singer], Dave [Navarro, guitarist] and myself decided to get back together. And given that Flea would not be able to join us, we found a bassist who was a friend and with us in Porno for Pyros, so it became a no-brainer.

Q: Between the drugs, music and girls, which one is your vice?

I like sex, but I am married now, so I am focused on life with her in general.

Q: Is it tough on the road?

Well, not really, since I have been married for a couple years but we have known one another for six.

¿ Quick fact ?Perkins says his mother, father and wife are his biggest influences.

Q: What is the best show you have ever played?

I liked Barcelona. Great night. But Japan, Alaska and Australia were also great. Florida is great because they are just nuts. And L.A. is fun because my family is there.

Q: You guys got back together... but considering some of your legendary albums, like Ritual de lo Habitual, how on earth can you follow that up?

Well, what it comes down to is that while we may be putting out new music, it is still Jane's Addiction, hence why the three of us are back. Otherwise, it would not be Jane then, would it? It comes to the same deep friendships and relationships. While with Porno, it was a slight tangent.

Q: Who are some of your influences?

My family — my mom, my dad and my wife.

Q: What does your wife think of your life?

She is proud.

Q: Do you prefer being on the road or in the studio?

Being on tour is easy. Sure you have to practice and rehearse. But being in a studio is a day after day grind. The creation part is just crazy. You are unhappy with what you have and try to be a perfectionist. It is like three painters painting one canvas.

Jane's Addiction's secret to success, and hanging out with Carmen Electra...